Engaging with the global marine industry topped NOC's reasons for partnering the Institute –which counts 15,000 maritime professionals from more than 100 countries among its members.

The association will allow NOC to share its expertise and have input into the institute's highly-regarded Special Interest Groups (SIGs).

Steve Hall, from NOC's International & Strategic Partnerships said: "NOC values being able to work with a highly regarded international professional body to jointly address the great challenges facing the ocean, to benefit from a closer working relationship with marine professionals in industry, and to encourage more people to consider a future in marine science, engineering and technology. IMarEST also provides an opportunity for our staff to seek accredited professional status, which will improve their career prospects and their understanding of the requirements of the broader marine sector."

The partnership will build on NOC's existing work with IMarEST which sees them consulting on both government and international bodies including the Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission (IOC) and International Maritime Organization (IMO), he said.IMarEST's Chief Executive, David Loosley, said: "We are pleased to be working closely with the National Oceanography Centre. A partnership such as this enables us to further enhance the IMarEST's global technical voice by increasing relevant technical expertise for our Special Interest Groups for the benefit of all of our members and corporate marine partners around the world."

The partnership will also encourage the professional development of a number of NOC's staff within the marine industry.

For further information on IMarEST's corporate marine partnerships, contact marinepartners@imarest.org or call Steve Bodie, Head of Partnering, on 44 (0)20 7382 2639 or visit www.imarest.org/PartnerWithUsNational Oceanography Centre to partner the IMarEST